Best Camping near Penhook, VA

Are you in need of a campground near Penhook, VA? Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Penhook, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Find the best campgrounds near Penhook, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Best Camping Sites Near Penhook, VA (69)

    Camper-submitted photo from Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground

    1. Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground

    24 Reviews
    53 Photos
    319 Saves
    Penhook, Virginia

    Smith Mountain Lake Campgrounds' Site Types: Two-bedroom frame - Two bedrooms; wood frame; one queen bed; two singles; foldout couch; ceramic tile floors with carpeted bedrooms. Two-bedroom cabins have a bathroom with shower. Two-bedroom frame waterview - Two bedrooms; wood frame; one queen bed; two singles; foldout couch; ceramic tile floors with carpeted bedrooms. The two-bedroom cabins have a bathroom with shower. Three-bedroom frame - Three bedrooms; wood frame; two queen beds; two singles; foldout couch; ceramic tile floors with carpeted bedrooms. The three bedroom cabin has two bathrooms (one universally accessible shower; the other has a tub). The three-bedroom cabins are meant to sleep six. Eight are allowed, but this relies on the use of a fold-out sofa for the extra two people. Total cabins: 20 Although the only fully universally accessible cabin in the park is cabin 7, numerous cabins, while not fully accessible, are better suited for customers having disabilities. Because of hilly terrain, all cabins other than cabin 7 have steps. Cabins 15, 17 and 19 have two steps, cabins 10, 13 and 20 have three steps, cabin 14 has four steps, and cabins 6, 12 and 18 have five steps. The remaining cabins are unsuitable for those with disabilities because of numerous steps or steep grades leading into the cabin. Bunkhouse Camping Lodge (bunkhouse) - no weekly requirement. The park has a camping lodge (bunkhouse), which is not a full service lodge, for rent. It's a two-room trailer with seven bunk beds ( five in one room and two in another), a refrigerator, a microwave oven, a coffee pot and air conditioning. It has no heating. The bunkhouse has a has a porch and a large covered deck with two picnic table, two other tables and eight chairs. It also has a charcoal grill and a fire ring. Smoking, portable heaters and cooking, except with the microwave oven, are not permitted in the lodge. There's a fire hydrant next to the lodge in the parking lot. Four vehicles are permitted with rental of the lodge; the daily parking fee must be paid for additional vehicles. RVs and trailers may not be parked in the bunk house parking lot; there's an overflow parking lot about 100 yards away.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $20 - $40 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Smith Mountain Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Smith Mountain Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Smith Mountain Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Smith Mountain Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Smith Mountain Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Smith Mountain Campground

    2. Smith Mountain Campground

    10 Reviews
    36 Photos
    110 Saves
    Penhook, Virginia

    A family owned and operated campground at the foot of scenic Smith Mountain, Virginia. We are less than 5 miles from the nearest public boat launch on the spectacular Smith Mountain Lake. Get ready to enjoy the tranquil views, take a hike on our trail, go fishing in our stocked pond, meet new camping friends, and enjoy a night sitting by the fire with your family. You could also bring your boat and enjoy a day on the water at Smith Mountain Lake!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $25 - $45 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from COE Philpott Lake Goose Point Park
    Camper-submitted photo from COE Philpott Lake Goose Point Park
    Camper-submitted photo from COE Philpott Lake Goose Point Park
    Camper-submitted photo from COE Philpott Lake Goose Point Park
    Camper-submitted photo from COE Philpott Lake Goose Point Park
    Camper-submitted photo from COE Philpott Lake Goose Point Park

    3. COE Philpott Lake Goose Point Park

    19 Reviews
    128 Photos
    124 Saves
    Henry, Virginia

    Overview

    Goose Point Campground is nestled on the shores of Philpott Lake in the rugged foothills of Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains. The clear water and natural shoreline make Philpott Lake a unique place for visitors. Philpott Lake Virtual Tour: https://corpslakes.erdc.dren.mil/visitors/virtual/philpott/tour.html

    Recreation

    The lake provides visitors with great boating and swimming opportunities. Anglers enjoy fishing for large and smallmouth bass, walleye, bluegill, crappie and catfish. Many miles of hiking and biking trails surround Philpott Lake, allowing visitors to get out and explore this scenic area.

    Natural Features

    Philpott Lake covers 2,900 acres and has 100 miles of shoreline. The lake's steep, rocky banks meet beautiful mixed forests of oak, maple, hickory, pine and cedar. Wildlife is abundant throughout the area: Deer, turkeys, squirrels, raccoons, and a variety of songbirds and waterfowl are commonly viewed.

    Nearby Attractions

    The lake is adjacent to Fairystone State Park and Fairystone Farms Wildlife Management Area, which includes 5,300 acres of public recreational lands.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $22 - $68 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Peaks Of Otter Campground — Blue Ridge Parkway
    Camper-submitted photo from Peaks Of Otter Campground — Blue Ridge Parkway
    Camper-submitted photo from Peaks Of Otter Campground — Blue Ridge Parkway
    Camper-submitted photo from Peaks Of Otter Campground — Blue Ridge Parkway
    Camper-submitted photo from Peaks Of Otter Campground — Blue Ridge Parkway
    Camper-submitted photo from Peaks Of Otter Campground — Blue Ridge Parkway

    4. Peaks Of Otter Campground — Blue Ridge Parkway

    21 Reviews
    115 Photos
    374 Saves
    Thaxton, Virginia

    Overview

    The Peaks of Otter Campground is nestled between the bases of two dominating mountains in the rolling hills of Virginia. Campers enjoy a rare serenity in this rustic setting. Relax, and leave your cares behind!

    Recreation

    The 24-acre Abbott Lake is one of the biggest attractions the Peaks of Otter Park has to offer. The lake is well-stocked with small mouth bass and bluegill. A crystal-clear mountain stream winds through the nearby picnic area. Numerous hiking opportunities range from demanding, scaling the area's high mountain peaks, to the moderate short, flat trail around Abbott Lake. Hikers are likely to stumble upon one of the mountain meadows, filled with wildflowers and migrating butterflies in the spring and a fantastic assortment of colors in the fall. Abundant wildlife like deer and wild turkey are spotted daily at the Peaks of Otter Campground, and many rare species of birds reside or migrate along the mountain ranges. Summer interpretive programs are provided for visitors to learn about the wildlife as well as the history of the area.

    Natural Features

    Three mountain peaks sitting atop a thick blanket of forest make up the Peaks of Otter-- a recreational oasis spanning acre upon acre of rolling landscape along the famous Blue Ridge Parkway. The Blue Ridge Parkway is a scenic byway that follows the high crests of the central and southern Appalachians for 469 miles from Shenandoah National Park in Virginia, to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina.

    Nearby Attractions

    The Peaks of Otter Lodge and Restaurant are located within walking distance of the campground, as is the Sharp Top Country Store. Restaurant dining, grab-and-go meals, snacks, souvenir items, camping supplies, firewood, and ice are all readily available to campground patrons. The Johnson Farm, an old mountain farmstead restored and preserved to look as it did in the mid-1800s, is just a short walk away. Another restored historic structure, Aunt Polly's Ordinary, sits on the northeastern shore of Abbott Lake.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $30 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Salthouse Branch Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Salthouse Branch Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Salthouse Branch Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Salthouse Branch Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Salthouse Branch Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Salthouse Branch Campground

    5. Salthouse Branch Campground

    13 Reviews
    42 Photos
    50 Saves
    Henry, Virginia

    Overview

    Salthouse Branch Campground is nestled on the shores of Philpott Lake in the rugged foothills of Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains. The park is located in a rural and sparsely populated part of Franklin County near the small community of Henry. Philpott Lake's clear water and natural shoreline make it a unique place for visitors to enjoy boating, fishing, hiking, picnicking and camping. Click here for the Philpott Lake Virtual Tour: https://corpslakes.erdc.dren.mil/visitors/virtual/philpott/tour.html

    Recreation

    The lake provides visitors with great boating and swimming opportunities. Anglers enjoy fishing for large and smallmouth bass, walleye, bluegill, crappie and catfish. A 1/2-mile nature loop and a 1/2-mile interpretive trail are available in the campground. Many additional miles of hiking and biking trails surround Philpott Lake, allowing visitors to get out and explore this scenic area.

    Natural Features

    Philpott Lake covers 2,900 acres and has 100 miles of shoreline. The lake's steep, rocky banks meet beautiful mixed forests of oak, maple, hickory, pine and cedar. Wildlife is abundant throughout the area. Deer, turkeys, squirrels, raccoons, and a variety of songbirds and waterfowl are commonly viewed.

    Nearby Attractions

    The lake is adjacent to Fairystone State Park and Fairystone Farms Wildlife Management Area, which includes 5,300 acres of public recreational lands.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $52 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Don's Cab-Inns Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Don's Cab-Inns Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Don's Cab-Inns Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Don's Cab-Inns Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Don's Cab-Inns Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Don's Cab-Inns Campground

    6. Don's Cab-Inns Campground

    7 Reviews
    20 Photos
    80 Saves
    Hardy, Virginia
    • Electric Hookups
    • ADA Access
    • Equestrian
    • Alcohol

    $25 - $100 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Fairy Stone State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Fairy Stone State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Fairy Stone State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Fairy Stone State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Fairy Stone State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Fairy Stone State Park Campground

    7. Fairy Stone State Park Campground

    11 Reviews
    111 Photos
    125 Saves
    Proctor Lake, Texas
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $30 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Leesville Lake Campground, LLC
    Camper-submitted photo from Leesville Lake Campground, LLC
    Camper-submitted photo from Leesville Lake Campground, LLC
    Camper-submitted photo from Leesville Lake Campground, LLC
    Camper-submitted photo from Leesville Lake Campground, LLC
    Camper-submitted photo from Leesville Lake Campground, LLC

    8. Leesville Lake Campground, LLC

    4 Reviews
    10 Photos
    30 Saves
    Hurt, Virginia

    Leesville Lake Campground, LLC is conveniently located within walking distance of Leesville Lake. Our 40-acre campground includes spacious full-hookup campsites, bathhouse, coin laundry, event field, firewood, nature trails, playground, propane, security cameras, store & gift shop, swimming pool, wi-fi, large beautiful wooded areas, nature trails, and spectacular views. Campers have quick access to the 17-mile long lake, which provides numerous recreation opportunities, including fishing, boating, kayaking, canoeing, and other water sports and activities. The lake access area includes a boat ramp, floating dock, pavilion, and paved parking areas with boat trailer spaces.

    We're close to U.S. Route 29, between Lynchburg and Danville, Virginia, for campers traveling through the area.

    We're open year-round! We're very pet friendly!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $50 - $60 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Paradise Lake & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Paradise Lake & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Paradise Lake & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Paradise Lake & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Paradise Lake & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Paradise Lake & Campground

    9. Paradise Lake & Campground

    8 Reviews
    25 Photos
    28 Saves
    Danville, Virginia
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Cave Mountain Lake Group Camp — George Washington & Jefferson National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Cave Mountain Lake Group Camp — George Washington & Jefferson National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Cave Mountain Lake Group Camp — George Washington & Jefferson National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Cave Mountain Lake Group Camp — George Washington & Jefferson National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Cave Mountain Lake Group Camp — George Washington & Jefferson National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Cave Mountain Lake Group Camp — George Washington & Jefferson National Forest

    10. Cave Mountain Lake Group Camp — George Washington & Jefferson National Forest

    18 Reviews
    69 Photos
    145 Saves
    Natural Bridge Station, Virginia

    Overview

    Cave Mountain Lake Group Camp is nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, and welcomes visitors to enjoy the rustic beauty and peacefulness of the area. Easy access from the interstate and close proximity to historic Lexington and Natural Bridge State Park make Cave Mountain Lake an ideal destination. Cave Mountain Lake covers seven acres and was built in the late 1930's by the Civilian Conservation Corps, using existing natural rock buttresses to form the 35-foot dam. A grassy field extends from the lake's sandy beach to forested hills that paint a scenic backdrop.

    Recreation

    The 7 acre lake offers opportunities for swimming in a designated area which includes a sand beach. Fishing for youth only (ages 15 and under) is open from April 1st through June 15th, then fishing is open to anglers of all ages with a valid Virginia fishing license for the remainder of the season. There are several piers around the lake for better fishing access. A number of opportunities for photography, birding, and wildlife viewing are available along the trails and water's edge. Hiking trails surround the area, offering everything from a short walk around the lake to an all-day hike along the nearby ridges. The Panther Knob Trail starts beside the group picnic shelter and skirts the edge of the lake to the dam. Visitors may also enjoy a day hike or backpacking trip on the Appalachian National Scenic Trail, the James River Face Wilderness, or the Thunder Ridge Wilderness.

    Natural Features

    Cave Mountain Lake covers seven acres and was built in the late 1930's by the Civilian Conservation Corps, using existing natural rock buttresses to form the 35-foot dam. A grassy field extends from the lake's sandy beach to forested hills that paint a scenic backdrop.

    Contact Info

    This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (540) 291-2188.

    Nearby Attractions

    Lexington, Virginia, just 20 minutes away, is home to several historic sites including the Stonewall Jackson House, George C. Marshall Museum, and the Virgnia Military Institute Museum. It's a charming town with horse drawn carriage rides through the streets. Ice and other sundries can be found at small stores along State Route 759 as you drive to Cave Mountain Lake Recreation Area. Natural Bridge State Park is a short 8 mile drive away and offers visitors views of the 215 foot tall Natural Bridge and limestone gorge, 6 miles of hiking trails, a Monacan Indian village, and the 30 foot cascade of Lace Falls.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group

    $20 - $40 / night

Showing results 1-10 of 69 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Penhook

Recent Reviews in Penhook

378 Reviews of 69 Penhook Campgrounds


  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from George Washington National Forest off 812
    Oct. 29, 2024

    George Washington National Forest off 812

    Anniversary Trip!

    We had the absolute best time. It was so peaceful being by the creek and just relaxing. You are off the road of the national forest so cars come by but nobody bothers you and it stays quiet. Will definitely be back soon!

  • Valerie P.
    Camper-submitted photo from Smith Mountain Campground
    Oct. 29, 2024

    Smith Mountain Campground

    Nice clean & spacious independent campground

    This is a very well maintained& clean campground. The owner is great and the camp host was very attentive. There is a good sized catch and release pond, we were at site#17 that was one site from the pond and not sure if you could see the water from#18 but the short walk to the pond is up a small hill/bunker like thing so there’s not a direct view of the water from#17 if that’s what you are looking for. There is a good play area and nice pavilion for groups and a smaller camping area down from the bathhouse. We have a 22’ TT, but I imagine the turn into the campground with a large motorhome would need some consideration for the driver to take their time. The drive to Smith Mountain Lake is not bad. The entry road off of RT 40 is at an angle, not a 90 degree turn so if you are coming from the East, it’s at the top of the hill but more than a 90 deg turn, coming from the West on 40 it’s an easy turn but you can’t see the traffic coming up the hill so be careful. There’s a convenience store, Penhook store, on 40 and it does have some raw and frozen meats, bait, ice, charcoal and the other basic store stuff. We came from the West and Rocky Mount has a Kroger and Wak-Mart. Wi-Fi was standard campground speed, didn’t use the bathhouse,power and water presser were good, site could have been a bit more level but they may work on that over the winter. Check in was a breeze, directly to the site but still greeted and checked on by the host. Some full timers and seasonal trailers but they were in good shape and clean. September stay so still had mosquitoes and fresh stink bugs, yeah! Have fun!

  • SJ W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from George Washington National Forest off 812
    Oct. 26, 2024

    George Washington National Forest off 812

    Mostly quiet spot, need some clearance in some spots.

    Multiple road sites that fit my van with room to spare - 80% were full on a beautiful fall Friday evening around 6pm but still snagged one

  • N
    Camper-submitted photo from North Creek Campground
    Oct. 13, 2024

    North Creek Campground

    Great campground

    very private, $15 a night, water, bathrooms, right on the river, pet friendly👍.. right next to the AT.. I have a German shepherd and a mini Australian shepherd and they had a blast!

  • S
    Camper-submitted photo from Interstate Overnight Park
    Oct. 8, 2024

    Interstate Overnight Park

    *******B E W A R E*****

    Do not stay here! 

    Sex offenders & homeless people come knocking on your doors at night! 

    Corrupt & not safe!

    Cracker Barrel across the street & lovely campgrounds off 81exit 84

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Thunder Bridge
    Sep. 17, 2024

    Thunder Bridge

    Idyllic forest campground

    Thunder BRidge is a unique property tucked away in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Near Natural Bridge State Park in Virginia, the campground was once a CCC camp. Now it is home to many quiet tent sites, screen cabins, log cabins, and even some fully furnished rental cabins.

    The campground is about 60% wooded, the rest is open ground with buildings from the camp's earlier days. The open area includes  several artists' studios.  At one edge is a forest creek, great for wading. 

    The campground is mostly tenting sites and rustic cabins, but there are RV sites in the open area.

    This is not a "resort" but you won't find a more beautiful, quiet campground!

  • Kristie S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Vic Thomas Park
    Sep. 16, 2024

    Vic Thomas Park

    Roanoke River

    Camped over night twice. Bathrooms stay open 24/7. Made fire no problems. River does rise alittle overnight if camping with tent. Very quiet & peaceful at night.

  • Katrina L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from George Washington National Forest off 812
    Sep. 16, 2024

    George Washington National Forest off 812

    Labor day weekend

    August 31, 2024, Labor Day weekend camping trip. Spent a night here camping with my younger sister.  She could only do one night, as she lives up north and had to be back up by Monday to go back to work on Tuesday. We arrived around 10:30am, we got everything set up before we ventured out. Very nice spot we found, very quiet except for nature. Best sounds ever. We visited the Natural bridge, which was about 20 minutes or so from the camp site. It did some light rain from around 8p til sometime after midnight, but stayed comfy and dry.

  • ZThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Willville Motorcycle Camp
    Sep. 8, 2024

    Willville Motorcycle Camp

    Great stop!!

    Best campground I’ve stayed at on a bike. Very welcoming, quiet and peaceful. Few small town stores about a mile away including gas. Nice bath houses with shower. We had a fire every night and good conversation. Great stop, 10/10 I will make a point to be back!

  • Kelly K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from George Washington National Forest off 812
    Sep. 4, 2024

    George Washington National Forest off 812

    More Spots Available!

    We came for this site specifically but it was already occupied so we kept going down the road. Luckily there were 4-5 additional site & we got one for 3 nights. They are all lovely & creekside with fire pits & there is a hike at the end of the road that takes you to a gorgeous summit & links to AT!

  • LDcakes
    Camper-submitted photo from North Creek Campground
    Aug. 24, 2024

    North Creek Campground

    A Peaceful Camping Getaway

    Our camping trip in Virginia was a step into serene simplicity for just $15. Nestled in a beautiful forest, we found peace with no electricity, no internet, and no phone signals—just pure nature. The campsite featured picnic tables, a fire pit, and even hooks to hang a cauldron for boiling water or cooking fish, adding to the rustic charm. Although there were no showers or sinks, the pit toilet served its purpose well. We spent our time enjoying a barbecue under the stars, fully embracing the natural world around us. Despite bear warnings and the lack of modern conveniences, this getaway left us refreshed and grateful for the peacefulness that only nature can offer.

  • Bobby C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from COE Philpott Lake Goose Point Park
    Jul. 13, 2024

    COE Philpott Lake Goose Point Park

    Scenic, tranquil, well-maintained, accommodating.

    Our family recently had an excellent experience camping at Goose Point Campground. Nestled along Philpott Lake, the campground offers stunning views and a tranquil atmosphere. The well-maintained, spacious campsites provided privacy and convenient water & electric hookups for our camper.

    We enjoyed a variety of activities, including swimming, fishing, and jet skiing on the lake, as well as hiking on nearby trails. The clean facilities and friendly, helpful staff made our stay even more enjoyable.

    Overall, Goose Point Campground is perfect for both a peaceful retreat and lake life adventure. Highly recommended!

  • ZThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Tina's Dream
    Jun. 13, 2024

    Tina's Dream

    Thank you The Dyrt help me found Tina Deam.

    Tina is a very nice lady! Camp in her house driveway, it is my first time, but quiet and safe neighborhood. We arrived very late evening, after nine o'clock.  she help us hoop up the electricity and water.

    It is a nice alternate campground!

  • VThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Chris’s Private Property
    May. 26, 2024

    Chris’s Private Property

    Basic private startup site with hookup

    Chris is establishing a couple of sites on his private property and getting organized. Simple and just off the road, but quiet. Chris is friendly and reachable by phone. A short 100 yards to a rushing creek. We needed a last minute spot during Memorial Day weekend and Chris set us up. Now showers, flat gravel site with pull through between hookups and picnic table platform.

  • Lucy P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Johns Spring Shelter — Appalachian National Scenic Trail
    Mar. 24, 2024

    Johns Spring Shelter — Appalachian National Scenic Trail

    Cute but very basic

    As far as AT shelters go this is pretty basic, except for the lack of a good water source. However, it's a decent spot to stay the night especially if it's not crowded! There's a few other shelters and stealth sites in the area that are also great options though.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping Site off FR 812
    Mar. 14, 2024

    Dispersed Camping Site off FR 812

    Great Option

    Large open space with several flat areas for tents. There are several spots on this road, maybe 6 but this is the furthest off the road. There are hiking trails and easy access to the stream.

  • Jake C.The Dyrt ADMIN User
    Camper-submitted photo from Tina's Dream
    Mar. 1, 2024

    Tina's Dream

    New to the Dyrt!

    Jake from the Dyrt here! We're excited to have this campground on the Dyrt and ready for you to book, check them out and make sure to leave a review!

  • N
    Camper-submitted photo from Paradise Lake Family Campground
    Feb. 22, 2024

    Paradise Lake Family Campground

    Favorite campground

    I stay here at least once every summer. Has beautiful pool and lake, playground, arcade, and boat rentals. Fishing, hiking, basketball. Very friendly staff all the time. Close to stores and restaurants but far enough out to not hear any noise. Phone service is superb. Clean shower and restrooms. Hot water. Electric tent sites!!! Has everything I live and will continue to go here as long as I’m in the state of Va. def recommended

  • adam B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Paradise Lake & Campground
    Feb. 20, 2024

    Paradise Lake & Campground

    Neat, tucked away and quiet

    This place is relatively small, but surrounds a small lake. Sites are close together, but everyone is respectful. Bathrooms leave something to be desired, and there is no family bathroom, but otherwise decent and the water is hot. With a little work this place could be great.



Guide to Penhook

Camping near Penhook, Virginia, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Hanging Rock State Park Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "The park has 5 waterfalls... almost all the hikes involve a steep hill climb of stairs." This makes it a great spot for those who love a good workout while enjoying nature.
  • Fishing and Swimming: At Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground, you can enjoy fishing and swimming. A camper shared, "The lake beach area is particularly nice and staffed by lifeguards."
  • Star Gazing: Visit Staunton River State Park Campground for a chance to see amazing night skies. One visitor noted, "This is part of the International Dark Sky Association. We brought stargazing folding chairs... and binoculars."

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA. A reviewer said, "Park is fantastic, best I’ve ever seen for cleanliness and friendly staff."
  • Spacious Campsites: Many enjoy the spacious sites at Goose Point Campground. One family mentioned, "The well-maintained, spacious campsites provided privacy and convenient water & electric hookups."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often highlight the helpful staff at Otter Creek Campground. A visitor remarked, "The park ranger was super nice and helpful."

What you should know

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Rocky Knob Campground, have limited facilities. A camper noted, "Facilities are limited, with hot water and flush toilets, but no showers or hookups."
  • Bear Awareness: At Cave Mountain Lake Group Camp, there are bear warnings. One camper shared, "There are signs warning everyone with instructions on how to avoid a bear visit."
  • Crowded During Peak Season: Campgrounds like Claytor Lake State Park Campground can get busy. A visitor mentioned, "The campground is kind of tiny. This park would probably appeal to equestrians, boaters, and RVers over tent campers."

Tips for camping with families

  • Family-Friendly Activities: Many campgrounds offer activities for kids. At Staunton River State Park Campground, a family enjoyed, "They had smores around the fire... and an outdoor movie afterwards."
  • Safety First: Choose campgrounds with good safety measures. One camper at Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA felt, "I stayed by myself and felt very safe in the beautiful, wooded campgrounds."
  • Plan for Quiet Time: Some sites can be noisy. A visitor at Staunton River State Park Campground mentioned, "The proximity of other campers was stressful this weekend because of the screaming family right next to us."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Hanging Rock State Park Campground said, "Most of the sites are small and very close together."
  • Look for Full Hookups: Campgrounds like Claytor Lake State Park Campground offer full hookups, which can be a big plus. One reviewer noted, "The majority of the power/water sites are pull through making life easy."
  • Be Prepared for Limited Cell Service: Many campgrounds have spotty cell service. A visitor at Rocky Knob Campground mentioned, "Cell service is poor."

Camping near Penhook, Virginia, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just be sure to plan ahead and know what to expect!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Penhook, VA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Penhook, VA offers a wide range of camping options, with 69 campgrounds and RV parks near Penhook, VA and 3 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Penhook, VA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Penhook, VA is Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 24 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Penhook, VA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 free dispersed camping spots near Penhook, VA.

  • What parks are near Penhook, VA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 18 parks near Penhook, VA that allow camping, notably Philpott Lake and George Washington & Jefferson National Forest.